Installing Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

How to Install a Rainwater Harvesting Tank in 8 Easy Steps

Installing Rainwater Harvesting Tanks

Rainwater harvesting is one of the smartest investments for any South African household. It helps you cut water bills, stay prepared for water shortages, and support the environment by using nature’s free supply.

The good news? Installing a rainwater tank is easier than you think. Follow these 10 simple steps to get started:

Choose the Right Tank Size

Your choice depends on roof size and water needs. Small homes may need a 2,500L tank, while larger properties benefit from 5,000L or more. (RotoTank™ offers tanks from 500L to 20,000L to suit every need.)

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Base

Ensure the area where the water tank will be installed is level and solid.
Build a solid, concrete base to provide a stable foundation for the tank. The base must support the full weight of the water tank when filled with water.

Step 2: Install the Water Tank

Place the RotoTank™ on the solid level base.

Ensure that the tank is positioned close to the downpipe system to allow proper connection.

Step 3: Attach the Gutter Buddy

Fit the Gutter Buddy to the top end of your roof’s gutter system.
The Gutter Buddy will prevent large debris like leaves from entering the rainwater harvesting system, ensuring cleaner water flows into the tank.

Step 4: Install the First Flush System

Install the First Flush Diverter underneath the gutter downpipe.
Use a recommended length of PVC pipe (650 mm x 110 mm) between the downpipe and the diverter.
The First Flush Diverter will capture the initial contaminated rainwater from the roof and divert it away from the tank. This ensures that only cleaner water is sent into your water tank.

Step 5: Connect the Downpipe to the Tank

Attach the downpipe from the gutter system to the water inlet on the RotoTank™.
Ensure the downpipe is securely connected so that rainwater can flow freely into the tank after passing through the Gutter Buddy and First Flush system.

Step 6: Set the Height for a Collection Bucket

Leave an appropriate height between the ground and the end of the First Flush pipe for a bucket or another drainage mechanism to collect diverted water.
Make sure the system is properly sealed and positioned.

Step 7: Final Checks

Inspect the entire setup to ensure there are no leaks or loose fittings.
Check that the Gutter Buddy and First Flush System are correctly filtering debris and contaminated water.

Step 8: Tie Downs if required

RotoTank™ Supplies Steal cable tie downs that loop around designed ears on the water tank. Simply loop around and then secure tightly to the ground with Eye bolts.